Influence of environment on spatial development 1900-6AGR

The course is divided into four distinct themes (they could be described in general as "terrain relief", "climate", "water", "landscape"). It aims at showing the importance of a right diagnosis of the environmental conditions and to present such possibilities of using the space and natural resources, so that they are not only optimally used but also to shield ourselves from the natural disasters. Environmental activities that both improve living conditions, as well as preserve the environment will be presented. Additionally, some topics from the environmental education will be introduced.
"Terrain relief": an attempt to describe the terrain relief of a given area through the analysis of paintings, photos, maps, poetry, literature, music (attempts to establish an emotional connection with the environment). Then, a further analysis is conducted: the relief as a barrier against economic/spatial development or as a challenge for planners? Finally, case studies of the role of relief in development will be presented.
"Climate": a particular emphasis is put on climate's role in different climatic zones, especially in the temperate one. During the lectures, positive and negative impacts of the local climate are shown for different branches of economy: construction, agriculture, tourism, recreation. Also, a climate of urbanized areas is described, together with the options for eliminating its negative qualities. The new energy-efficient technologies in house construction are presented (especially important during the energy crises).
"Water": the human-water relationship is analyzed on the examples of selected lakes. During classes the benefits and risks are evaluated - those resulting from the contemporary management of lake direct catchment as well as those caused by the projected climate change. At the end of classes a list of countermeasures and recommendations for spatial management is being developed .
"Landscape": landscape is being understood as a resource of visual-aesthetic value of the environment and its impact on the quality of life. According to the European Landscape Convention, the protection of the landscape value is one of the most important factors in economic planning and sustainable development.
During the class, the students learn how to conduct an Environment Protection Study; it includes judging environmental attractiveness of the landscape, setting up the rules and conditions for environmental protection and modification.